Mary Josephine Hancock Carlsen passed away January 16, 2016 at Friendship Manor at the age of 93. Mary's death was preceded by her husband Gerhardt Carlsen. Mary and Gerhardt met and married at Camp Pendleton, California where they were stationed as Marines. Mary is survived by her three children: Dr. Gary Carlsen— Corona del Mar, California, Julie Koivula—Batavia, Illinois, and Greg Carlsen—Perth, Australia. She was also blessed with eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Mary was very active in Rock Island community activities. She served as a Cub Scout Den Mother and Brownie leader when her children were young. She was also a great lover of music and sang in the St. Johns Lutheran Church Choir, often doing solos and participated in the church's Bible study group. Mary loved to paint and made pottery. She sewed bags for the American Cancer Society and knitted hats for babies in local hospitals. She volunteered for WVIK, reading to the blind, was in Friends of the Library, and in four book clubs. At Friendship Manor she was in PEO and the choir. She and Gerhardt always enjoyed gardening together and even at the age of 92 she worked in her garden adjacent to her apartment. Mary is remembered by her children as a loving, caring mother. She taught them the love of learning and nature.

A memorial service will be held at Friendship Manor, January 23rd at 11am in the Chapel. Mary will be buried with Gerhardt, her husband, on Arsenal Island in the military cemetery (family only). In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure or National Stroke Association.